3D printers can be used to create models or products directly from digital designs.
Rapid prototyping software is software used to make new prototyping fast and easy, but some features can help you achieve this goal better than others. You may want to look for rapid prototyping software that has a three-dimensional (3D) interface, as this can help substantially in customizing a part. Along with a 3D interface, the prototype software must also be able to edit all aspects of your design to optimize the prototype. Having a comprehensive parts list can help you add existing parts to your prototype design, and this can get the design up and running faster. This program is intended for rapid prototyping, so you need to be able to connect to a rapid prototyping team.
There are some two-dimensional (2D) rapid prototyping software interfaces on the market, but they are generally only good for very simple parts. Computer design will eventually become a physical product, so getting a 3D interface can also be beneficial. This can help you visualize and edit the design to your specifications, while presenting a realistic-looking model.
Having a 3D interface should help with editing and fixing the prototype design, but another aspect that can help is having full control over the 3D model. Some rapid prototyping software programs have restrictions when editing the model, such as not being able to change the width or thickness of the representation. A prototype may need many small changes to make it perfect, however, you should get a program that can easily work with all aspects of your model.
Most prototypes use existing parts, and if your rapid prototyping software has a large list of existing parts, it can help you in terms of accuracy and speed. Instead of having to manually model an existing part, a parts list allows you to select the part and it will be added to the prototype model. Larger lists are usually better because they tend to have a better chance of meeting your needs, but having a list that specializes in your prototype’s niche, like electrical or plumbing, is another option that can work well.
One of the key aspects of rapid prototyping is the use of a rapid prototyping machine, such as a 3D printer or automatic milling machine. If the rapid prototyping software cannot connect to one of these machines, it can be difficult to produce the prototype design. Having support for many different rapid prototyping methods is often beneficial.